“I came back to hospital straight after we finished a round of European tour dates, and the good news is that everything is alright up to this point,” he said. “I am in remission and hopefully, this situation will continue. The chemotherapy and the follow-up treatment appear to have done the trick – but I’m aware that it could come back one day.”

“I have a blood test every six weeks at my GP’s, and I come in here at regular intervals for check-ups,” he added. “That’s something that I’ll have to live with for the rest of my life, looking for any warning signs that it might be rearing its ugly head again. But the availability of a facility like the Specialist Care Centre makes it so much easier. They’re all lovely here!”

The Spire Specialist Care Centre – a new, purpose-built £1.3 million facility in the grounds of Solihull’s Spire Parkway Hospital – has been awarded the The Macmillan Quality Environment Mark for its care of cancer patients.

“I can’t thank them enough for what they have done for me, and others like me,” said Iommi, who later posted to social media: “Many thanks to everyone who’s been in touch about my remission. Your kind words are very appreciated.”